Nurses as Patients

Aren't we the worst? I try to be nice, but some of my worst patients have been nurses. I always find it interesting to be on the other side of the rails (or the bedpan.) It certainly is educational! Anywhoooo... my surgery is coming up in just a few weeks. I've been told I will have an NG, JP, and a J-tube. I've been promised that I will NOT have to be on a vent. That's my biggest fear. I used to work respiratory nursing and ughugh! I don't want that. They'd better drug me silly if they do it. The NG will be uncomfortable, but I can do it. The drains won't be a bother. Nausea sucks, but the NG should help with that a bit. This isn't a teaching hospital, so I won't be dealing with interns and residents at all hours. *crossing heart* I promise to TRY being the perfect patient. Jeanie in MO DS 02/11/05 "Duodenal Switch: My New Beginning"

Sometimes I don't tell them that I'm a nurse. It just depends. Either you get extra special care cuz they know you're a nurse and know what they should be doing. Or you get ignored cuz they know you're a nurse and figure you can do for yourself. You just never know. I see you are having the Duodenal Switch. What made you choose that way to go if you don't mind my asking? Take care. Hope all goes well. Nancy

Why the DS? This was how I made my decision. When I started reading about wls, I didn't know the DS was an option, had never heard of it. I found some profiles of people who lived in my area, and one of them talked about going out of the country for a duodenal switch. She is an RN, too. After reading all I could find, I decided on the DS for me. I don't want to and I want to be able to drink with my meals. I want to eat "normal" foods. I want to be able to chew gum. I want to take aspirin and NSAIDS. I don't want to "dump." (Keeping the pyloris is a big plus.) I don't want to worry about the opening from my stomach closing up. I want to lose the most amount possible and keep it off. I want my diabetes to be controlled or eliminated. I have a better chance of these things with the DS vs. the others. I checked with surgeons in Chicago, Ohio, Tennessee, Georgia, and Nebraska. No surgeons in St. Louis do the procedure - yet. After finding that some surgeons have years-long waiting lists or that some don't take my insurance, I ended up going to see Dr. Anthone in Omaha, Nebraska. Everything fell in line so easily while I was getting things together - the testing and paperwork and all, that it feels like it was meant to be. I woke up this morning and for the first time, wondered what in the heck I have gotten myself into. Just yesterday, it seemed like my surgery was so far away. Now I'm wondering if I have time to get everything done. 19 days!!! Jeanie in MO

Ok, I'm this morning. Today is the 19th. I'm having surgery in 23 days.

Your comment that you wonder what you've gotten into....I asked myself that every day the first month AFTER my surgery. I was miserable, though I had no complications really. I was just weak, sore and really questioning my decision to do this. Now, -93# and 7 months later, I am very happy I did it, and I have no problems. I can eat most anything, rarely get sick from food, and am looking so much better and feel wonderful. Just know that that first month is very hard, and be ready for it. Everyday got easier than the first, and I would really look forward to 'tomorrow'...... It gave me far more empathy for my patients and the pain and helplessness they sometimes feel. Best to you. Tracey

Thanks, Tracey. It helps to see that others have gone through the same thing. DH mentioned tonight that I should be prepared to feel "not so hot" and question why I had the surgery for several weeks after. I think he has been reading up on things! Good for him. I don't think anyone likes feeling out of control of things. Funny how being helpless is reflected by patients. Some ask for help, some act angry, some withdraw. You're a better caregiver now, I'm sure. Jeanie in MO

Hello! Wow, All I can say is WE MAKE THE WORST PATIENTS! I was a horrible patient. I think it has alot to do with what you know you are suppose to get, and you want it done quick. I was on a commode for 15minutes before I chewed a damn CNA's head off. I really let her have it, and mentioned to her that I was also a Nurse and to expect to get reported. Sure enough, I did. I don't know if she works there or not, but I do know that her and another woman we're sent to "Sensitivity" classes. I was even late for my own surgery. Take care all, Gracie